BLUF
Only four large Australian-flagged ships exist. The 2023 Strategic Fleet Report recommends 12 new ships as reliance on foreign shipping is risky—an armed Merchant Navy could strengthen supply security while reducing costs and crew demands.Learning Outcomes:
- Understanding national security challenges: The article highlights Australia’s shipping vulnerabilities and the risks of supply disruption.
- Analysing cost-effective defence strategies: It presents an armed Merchant Navy as a practical, budget-friendly solution.
- Recognising the impact of global partnerships: The discussion on reliance on the U.S. Navy underscores the importance of international security cooperation.
